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There is nothing like the feeling of getting a new computer…a fresh start, advanced technology, the list goes on! If you found yourself with a new laptop in hand at the beginning of the year, the following tips might be helpful for you.
First and foremost, WAIT to connect to the Internet
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Though it might be the first thing that you want to do, NEVER connect your new PC to Wifi or Ethernet first. Instead, click on ‘I don’t have internet’ and finish the setup process. If you do choose to connect to the internet initially, it will force you to create a Microsoft account, connecting your system to that online program. Connect to the internet once your desktop loads.
Think twice before buying antivirus software
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The RCI Computer Security 101 PDF, available below, gives you step by step instructions on making your laptop extra secure. This means you can protect your computer from viruses and avoid buying antivirus software (added software won’t really provide significantly more protection than the Windows Defender antivirus software that’s already built into your computer)
In summary, here are a few simple steps you can take to avoid a computer virus headache:
1) Check email addresses before clicking on attachments or included links
2) Set strong passwords (include capital AND lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols)
3) Create a ‘Disaster Recovery Plan’ in case of emergencies (fire, theft, server crash)
4) Back up your data
Check out this attachment to learn more about Computer Security
Find a good cloud storage program that works for you.
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Cloud storage has major collaboration benefits; but, don’t mistake cloud storage as being the same as a data backup. These cloud storage programs are designed for convenience and collaboration, but have limited ability to restore files or file versions in the event of data loss. We’ll talk about data backup strategies in a future post. Some great Cloud Storage options include: OneDrive, Dropbox, and Google Drive.
Though they’re all pretty much the same, OneDrive has the advantage of being integrated into Windows. Office365 (Windows) subscriptions include 1tb or more of OneDrive storage. Google Drive is a good option if you find yourself in the Google/Gmail ‘ecosystem’. Dropbox is another cloud storage program that isn’t integrated with Google or Windows, but provides sufficient cloud storage space and easy sharing.
Taking these steps in setting up your new laptop will make the transition from your old laptop more easeful and your work more efficient. If you need additional guidance on set up, please reach out to Regala Consulting.